Speaking Engagements & Educational Programs

Steve Gettle is not just a speaker; he is a vibrant storyteller and an enthusiastic mentor, celebrated for his unique and fun teaching style that captivates audiences at photography conventions and events around the world. With a genuine passion for sharing his expertise, Steve transforms each presentation into an engaging experience that both motivates and inspires aspiring photographers and seasoned artists alike.

Through both Zoom and in-person events, Steve presents his dynamic lecture series, where he seamlessly blends practical knowledge with creative insights, covering a wide array of photographic topics from the fundamentals to advanced techniques. His ability to connect with participants fosters an enjoyable learning environment, making even complex concepts accessible and exciting.

Steve’s enthusiasm for photography is infectious, igniting a sense of curiosity and creativity within his audience. Whether he’s sharing tips on capturing the perfect shot or guiding you through a new technique, his approach encourages participants to explore their artistic potential and deepen their understanding of the craft.

For organizations looking to inspire their members, hosting Steve’s presentation either via Zoom or in person could be a transformative experience. What’s more, depending on the size of your group, sponsorship opportunities may be available to bring Steve in at no cost.

Don’t miss the chance to provide your community with the opportunity to learn from a master in the field. Join the many who have been uplifted and empowered by Steve’s unique style and get ready to embark on a photographic journey that will leave you inspired and eager to capture the beauty around you. Experience the magic of any one of these programs, where every moment is an opportunity to learn, grow, and see the world through a new lens!

Zoom and GoToWebinar presentations are available.

Educational Programs from Gettle Photography

Building an Image: An Inspiring Journey into the Art of Photography

Great images are rarely the result of mere chance; they are often the product of thoughtful planning and meticulous craftsmanship. In “Building an Image,” Steve guides you through the intricate process of creating compelling photographs, highlighting the essential elements that contribute to stunning visual storytelling.

Join Steve as he shares his comprehensive approach, beginning with the art of seeing and recognizing potential images in everyday surroundings. He delves into the critical decisions that shape each photograph, such as composition, lighting, background selection, and perspective.

Through this enlightening talk, Steve empowers participants to thoughtfully construct their images, transforming their vision into reality. Experience the step-by-step progression of building a final composition and discover how to convey powerful messages through your photographs. Whether you’re a budding photographer or an experienced artist, you’ll leave inspired and equipped with new strategies to elevate your photographic practice.

One of the most extraordinary aspects of photography is its profound ability to communicate and evoke emotions within the viewer. Your images serve as powerful tools, capable of bridging gaps and connecting with people across language and cultural boundaries. Every color, line, and shape you choose to incorporate into your final composition plays a vital role in shaping the emotional response of your audience.

In the “The Art of Visual language” presentation, Steve will take you on a transformative journey through the world of visual storytelling. He will explore how each element within your photograph can be harnessed to create a compelling narrative and communicate your unique message.

Join Steve as he reveals the artistry behind crafting images that resonate deeply with viewers. Discover how to thoughtfully select colors that evoke specific feelings, utilize lines and shapes to guide the viewer’s eye, and create harmonious compositions that leave a lasting impact. Throughout this enlightening experience, you will be inspired to deepen your artistic expression and elevate your photography to new heights. Embrace the power of your images and learn how to make them speak volumes to those who encounter them.

The world is a breathtaking tapestry of scenic splendor, waiting to be discovered and immortalized through your lens. In the “Light on the Land” program, you will embark on an inspiring journey that teaches you to create stunning images that celebrate the beauty of our landscapes.

This comprehensive program goes beyond simply capturing grand sweeping vistas; it encourages you to immerse yourself in the intricacies of nature. Together, we will explore the art of photographing intimate forest scenes, delicate flowers, and the enchanting patterns that flourish all around us. By learning to observe the world with a discerning eye, you will uncover the stunning details often overlooked in our everyday surroundings.

Steve will guide you through essential techniques that enhance your ability to “see the picture” amid the chaos of nature. You will learn to find order in the seemingly random, allowing you to create harmonious compositions that resonate with viewers.

Join us in this artistic exploration of the landscape, where you will gain insights into the skills and inspiration to transform your surroundings into captivating works of art. Embrace your creativity and discover how to showcase the remarkable stories that the land has to tell.

Capturing the beauty and grace of the avian world is both an exhilarating and rewarding pursuit. In the “Bird Photography: Beyond the Basics” program, we invite you to elevate your skills and transform your photographs into expressions of the wonder that birds embody.

This engaging talk goes far beyond foundational techniques, offering you a treasure trove of tips and tricks designed to take your bird photography to new heights. You will delve into the art of using fill-flash for stunning lighting, explore various types of blinds to enhance your approach to wildlife, and learn how to create a captivating backyard bird photography studio right at home.

Steve will guide you through this journey, demonstrating that you don’t need an expensive $12,000 lens to capture breathtaking images of our feathered friends. With creativity and resourcefulness, you can achieve remarkable results with the equipment you already have.

Join us in this inspiring exploration of bird photography, where you will not only learn practical techniques but also cultivate a deeper appreciation for the beauty of nature. Discover how to tell compelling stories through your images, connect with the natural world, and embrace the joy of photographing the vibrant life that surrounds us.

Are you ready to transcend the confines of static portraits and capture the exhilarating essence of movement? In the “Caught in Motion” program, we’ll unlock the power of today’s mirrorless cameras and the latest advancements in autofocus technology to make action photography accessible to photographers of all skill levels.

Join us as we delve into the art of photographing dynamic subjects in motion, such as birds soaring through the sky, animals sprinting in their natural habitats, and other fast-paced action scenes. This innovative course will equip you with the skills to harness just your camera, natural light, and advanced autofocus capabilities to create striking images that convey energy and life.

Throughout this engaging talk, you will learn essential techniques for successfully photographing action, from understanding special exposure methods tailored for dynamic environments to acquiring initial focus-lock on your subjects. We’ll explore how to effectively track your moving subjects and optimize your autofocus for spectacular results.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just beginning your journey, this program will inspire you to embrace the thrill of capturing motion in your work. Join us and elevate your photography to an exhilarating new level!

Step into the enchanting realm of the small with “A New World Opens Up: Macro Photography in the Field.” In this inspiring program, Steve will guide you through the art of capturing the exquisite beauty of nature’s tiniest wonders, from delicate butterflies to the intricate details of petite flowers.

Discover how to create stunning images using basic equipment, proving that you don’t need an extensive setup to achieve remarkable results. Steve will introduce you to the essential gear required for macro photography, ensuring you are well-equipped to explore this fascinating genre.

Throughout the session, you will learn specialized techniques that elevate your macro photography skills, even in the challenged environment of the outdoors. Topics will include maximizing depth of field to provide clarity in your imagery, controlling light to enhance your subjects, and managing backgrounds to create captivating compositions. Additionally, you’ll explore the effective use of flash to open up the nighttime world of macro photography

With a strong emphasis on working with macro subjects in the field, this program invites you to slow down and truly appreciate the astonishing beauty hidden in nature’s smallest treasures. Join us to unlock your creative potential and embrace the artistry of macro photography, where each photograph tells a story that transcends size and scope. Explore, create, and capture a new world that opens up right at your feet!

Step into the mesmerizing world of advanced macro photography with “Moving in Closer.” This program invites you to look beyond the ordinary and discover the extraordinary details that nature has to offer. Experience the thrill of gazing into the eyes of a dragonfly, examining the vibrant scales on a butterfly’s wing, and admiring the shimmering dew drops on a spider’s web. In this journey, a stunning new realm unfolds as we venture beyond 1:1 magnification—where a full-frame shot of a nickel gives way to captivating extreme close-ups.

Throughout this immersive talk, you will explore essential techniques and specialized equipment designed to unlock the hidden beauty of the minuscule. You’ll learn to use simple tools such as extension tubes and close-up diopters, allowing you to easily photograph elusive subjects up close. As you progress, you’ll also discover advanced techniques involving microscope objectives and focusing rails that will enable you to capture the tiniest details with astonishing clarity.

In addition to mastering physical techniques, this program will introduce you to innovative creative strategies like focus stacking and high-speed flash. These techniques will open new doors for you, enabling the capture of intricate images that convey depth and movement, transforming the details of your subjects into breathtaking works of art.

This program complements “A New World Opens Up: Macro Photography in the Field,” where Steve guides you in the art of capturing nature’s smallest wonders.

Step into the captivating realm of high-speed flash photography with “Frozen Moments.” In this transformative program, you’ll explore the extraordinary ability of digital technology to reveal the unseen wonders of nature—spectacular moments that escape our naked eye.

With the power of high-speed flash, photographers can break free from the ordinary and capture breathtaking images of subjects in motion that are often missed in real time. Imagine photographing hummingbirds gracefully hovering in mid-air, frogs suspended in the midst of their leaps, or a honeybee delicately poised above a flower. This advanced technique allows you to unveil nature’s magic and share these incredible moments with your audience.

Throughout this presentation, participants will learn how to harness off-the-shelf electronic flashes for authentic high-speed photography. You’ll gain practical skills and techniques that will empower you to capture stunning imagery of dynamic subjects. Additionally, you will discover how to incorporate a high-speed trigger system and even an electromagnetic shutter, opening up an entirely new world of thrilling photographic possibilities.

Join us for this inspiring journey where you’ll expand your creativity and technical expertise. You’ll be encouraged to push your boundaries as you experiment with innovative methods to freeze fast-action moments in time. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking to enhance your craft or a curious beginner eager to explore new techniques, “Frozen Moments” will equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to create striking imagery that captivates and inspires.

Dive into this exhilarating adventure and unlock the potential of high-speed flash photography. Embrace the art of capturing fleeting moments, and let your photographs tell the remarkable stories of the vibrant life that surrounds us!

I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the presentation last night. Let me say…during this insane YEAR, I have joined many webinars on various aspects of photography…. most of them dry and – well pretty darned boring to be honest! But Nicole and Steve, you guys give out warmth, even across the zoom set up. I love how you are so natural with your conversation with one another – you keep your sense of humor (without it life is just not worth the effort sometimes)… always such great -straightforward information.

As the technical questions come flooding in, I love, Steve, that you give them airtime, but stick to your personal way of doing things (guidelines, not rules, lenses “yeah I got lenses….”), Settings….it’s all personal – it’s knowing your equipment and your expertise and working within those parameters. It was such a joy to meet at your home and do the Macro workshop in the fall- you guys are still my favorite pair to learn from – DANG…I hope to go on one of your amazing photo trips someday – Anyway, thanks again for all you both do. You are each amazing in your own ways, but TOGETHER….you are superheroes (at least in my book).

-Dorrie M. – Michigan

 Steve and Nicole, I’ll admit to not being a Zoom fan (pretty big hater actually), but you use it so professionally that after a minute, I felt I was watching you in person. Except I had a better seat, And my friend Sam was able to join me. Thanks for showing me the potential of Zoom done well! I really enjoyed your program, and the accompanying images. I hope we hear more from you in the future, either live or via Zoom.

-Mickey R. – Tennessee

Thanks for the ECC presentation yesterday, it was very thought provoking and super photographs, you really do push the boat out, quite literally. I’m sure a few of the more technically minded photographers here will be scratching their heads this morning, trying to figure out how to put a high-speed flash set up together! I’m pondering portable hides, waders etc. for next spring, so thanks for covering that too. It was a masterclass of how to go about all kinds of nature photography, so thanks for your generosity with all the information that you gave on zoom and the email. Also, thanks for the links to YouTube etc.”

-Steve C. – United Kingdom

Inspirational Keynote Presentation: Finding Your Own Unique Vision

Embark on an inspiring journey of self-discovery and artistic expression in photography with “Finding Your Unique Vision.” As photographers, our paths are marked by continuous growth and exploration. Most of us begin our adventure by simply framing a beautiful scene and pressing the shutter, capturing the world as it is. But as we evolve, we yearn for more control—an opportunity to use various lenses and settings to truly express our creative vision.

In this engaging keynote presentation, Steve invites you to explore the stages of this transformative journey, from the initial excitement of capturing picturesque moments to the deeper, introspective quest for a personal photographic style. As many of us experiment with techniques and often emulate the work of others, we inch closer to discovering the distinctive voice that defines our own personal artistry.

Drawing from his own experiences, Steve will share captivating behind-the-scenes images that illustrate his evolution as a nature photographer. Through storytelling and vivid visuals, he will reveal the insights and obstacles he faced while searching for his own unique vision.

Join us for this captivating exploration, as Steve encourages you to embrace the diverse influences that shape your work while urging you to dig deeper into your identity as an artist. “Finding Your Unique Vision” is not just a presentation; it’s an inspiring call to action, inviting you to break free from imitation and celebrate your individuality.

Come and discover how to cultivate your distinctive perspective in nature photography, transforming your passion into a unique artistic expression that resonates through your images. Together, let’s embark on this exciting adventure to uncover the extraordinary vision that lies within each of us!

The Art Of Nature Photography - A One-Day Seminar

Join Steve for an intensive one day nature photography seminar. Steve will share the knowledge he’s gained from over thirty years experience creating stunning images of the natural world. During this seminar, we will cover all aspects of nature photography, from capturing grand sweeping vistas, to the tiny world of macro photography. We will also discuss how and where to photograph the beautiful flora and fauna of the natural world.

Attendees from beginners to advanced shooters will learn tips, tricks, and techniques to help them take their photography to the next level. The entire seminar will be illustrated using hundreds of Steve’s images which highlight and reinforce the topics being discussed.

Fundraising Opportunities

Is your organization looking for a fun and easy fund raiser to generate revenue for your camera club or group? How about joining forces with Steve to host an “Art of Nature Photography” seminar in your area.

From past hosts

“Working with Steve Gettle is a “win-win-win” situation. Bringing Steve in for a program is a quality addition to any venue or event, and raises important revenue that supports other programming efforts. And he’s easy to work with to boot. Participants in his seminar “The Art of Nature Photography” found him informing, entertaining, and more than meeting their expectations. For the Center, our reputation for offering quality programs was enhanced; and the financial folks who watch our bottom line were thrilled. We’ll be bringing Steve back”

Art Weber, Director, The National Center for Nature Photography

From past attendees

“I have attended three of these seminars in the past year or so and to be honest I wasn’t sure I was going to learn anything new but I was sadly mistaken. You really opened my eyes to what it means to ‘make’ a photograph instead of ‘taking’ a photograph.“

“It was like going to see a great magician and then having him show you how to do all the tricks after the show. I believe my photos are really going to improve after your seminar.“

Todd B, Flint, MI

“When it comes to teaching nature photography with a digital camera you are destined to be this generations John Shaw.”

Bob J, Toledo, OH

An overview of the topics covered

Equipment for Nature Photography

Learn what equipment you need for the different types of nature photography. This section will help you to buy the right equipment the first time.

  • Camera bodies
  • Lenses
  • Tripods/tripod heads
  • Electronic Flash
  • Camera Bags
  • Filters and other accessories

Get the exposure you Want Every Time

Understand how your camera sees light. Learn how to shoot perfect exposures every time. You will also learn how and why to read the histogram and more importantly how to bend it to your will.

  • Exposure theory
  • The different exposure modes and when to use them
  • Understanding the Histogram
  • Exposure Compensation
  • Controlling Depth of field
  • Shutter speed and motion effects
  • jpeg vs raw shooting
  • ISO’s effect on exposure
  • How exposure affects the image

It’s All About the Light

Attendees will learn about light and how it affects the final image. You will also learn how to read the light, and how the light should affect your choice of subject matter.

  • Quality of light
  • Direction of light
  • Color of light
  • Filters to control light
  • Flash and fill flash

Composing Stunning Images of the Natural World

We will focus on the many elements that make up the composition of a beautiful image. In this section, you will learn how to use balance, symmetry, and visual harmony to create pleasing compositions.

  • The “rules” and when to break them
  • Finding the picture
  • Working the subject
  • Visual paths
  • Vertical vs horizontal
  • Balance
  • Pre-visualization
  • Positive and negative space
  • Shooting panorama’s

Different Types of Nature Photography

In this section, we will discuss in detail all of the different genres of nature photography as well as when and where to find subject matter to photograph.

  • Mammals
  • Birds
  • Reptiles and amphibians
  • Landscapes
  • Plants and flowers
  • Macro